libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən 

1

a

: an act of pouring a liquid as a sacrifice (as to a deity)

They offered a libation at the temple.

b

: a liquid (such as wine) used in a libation

2

a

: an act or instance of drinking often ceremoniously

a libation to celebrate their anniversary

b

: beverage

especially : a drink containing alcohol

His favorite libation is scotch on the rocks.

libationary

lī-ˈbā-shə-ˌner-ē 

adjective

Synonyms

• beverage
• drink
• drinkable
• potable
• quencher

Examples of libation in a Sentence

They offered libations at the temple.

We met for a libation after work.

Recent Examples on the Web

The public is encouraged to visit these establishments to order these specialty libations. —Michele Herrmann, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024

Indulge your love for food and libations with a diverse selection of cooking and wine pairing classes. —Roger Sands, Forbes, 28 Oct. 2024

The Little America Hotel in downtown Salt Lake City is serving new libations at its Halloween pop-up bar for the month of October. —Kim Bojórquez, Axios, 23 Oct. 2024

Bar director Eric Van Beek and team use molecular mixology to craft outstanding libations that are far more complex than meet the eye, with unexpected layers of flavor and a focus on regional ingredients. —Megan Murphy, Travel + Leisure, 23 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English libacioun, from Latin libation-, libatio, from libare to pour as an offering; akin to Greek leibein to pour

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

libation

noun

li·​ba·​tion lī-ˈbā-shən 

1

a

: the act of pouring a liquid in honor of a god

b

: a liquid (as wine) poured as a libation

2

: a drink poured or taken as if to honor a god